The Alps in Austria
A natural spectacle of beauty
In the Austrian Alps, contrasts abound: towering peaks rise skyward, while gentle alpine meadows glow with lush greenery. As the first morning sunlight floods the valley, nature comes alive. A breath of crisp mountain air invigorates, while the eye sweeps over blooming meadows and ancient forests. Here, where marmots whistle and eagles soar, a deep connection to nature is felt.
A hiking holiday in the Alps lets your soul unwind, carried by nature’s rhythm, and time is experienced in its purest, most unforgettable form.
The National Parks in the Alps
Authentic mountain villages to savour
Scattered across the Alpine regions, these villages remain quietly hidden: far from noise and hustle, time seems to have stood still in these mountaineering villages. And that’s intentional – their charm lies in tradition, authenticity, and culture. The alpine atmosphere and typical mountain village life have been preserved.
Yet, there’s no need to forgo comfort and convenience. After all, the enjoyment of good food and culture is highly valued in these villages. Whether guests prefer to immerse themselves in a good book or opt for climbing, hiking, or mountain biking, each nature lover can decide for themselves.
Alpine cuisine
The cities of the Alps
Excellent alpine craftsmanship
The wheel of the year begins to turn with the start of Carnival, marked by various region-specific customs. This is followed by Easter celebrations, from painting eggs to the traditional "Ratschen Gehen." After Maypole festivities and the summer solstice bonfire, the annual cattle drive in late summer always draws attention. The animals are elaborately decorated, and the villages come alive with music and dancing. It’s a way for farmers to give thanks for safely bringing their animals through the summer.
The customs associated with the "Rauhnächte" around Christmas, such as divination rituals and Krampus runs, remain as unspoiled traditions to this day. These rituals shape the dark season, which is brightened by Christmas. A more recent tradition is the spectacular Narcissus Festival in Bad Aussee in the spring.
Customs with tradition
Alpine history
Between 1712 and 1715, conflicts erupted in the heart of the Salzkammergut between Catholics and Protestants. The Emperor sent soldiers into the crisis zone, prompting the Protestants to flee. However, they were caught on the frozen Gosausee by the "Black Riders." As the riders galloped towards the group, their horses broke through the ice, and they drowned. The refugees were saved.
The "Black Riders," also known as "Schwarzreiter," still exist today in the Gosausee: delicious little lake trout with black backs. On hot summer days, when they rise to the surface, the locals say knowingly, "Ah, the Black Riders are making an appearance again!"
Information about the mountain giants
FAQs
Climate Protection Tips
Take everything you bring to the mountains back with you and dispose of it properly – tissues, packaging, water bottles, etc.
Always stick to the marked hiking trails! This helps keep wildlife and young forests undisturbed.
Be mindful of wildlife! Observe cows, sheep, and wild animals from a distance.
Make use of the well-developed network of regional trains and hiking buses.
Choose mountain huts that are committed to sustainability and environmental protection.
Inspire your children to appreciate nature! What they are familiar with, they will learn to value.
Protect biodiversity: The rangers in the national parks show you how.